5 Common Home Myths Busted
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Owning a home is one of life’s greatest accomplishments. However, maintaining a home can sometimes feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of tips, tricks, and advice available everywhere: from social media platforms to TV shows.
Some of this advice is based on well-meaning misconceptions that, when followed, may do more harm than good. In this article, I’ll debunk 5 common home myths and provide more effective alternatives to keep your home in top shape.
Throwing a Lemon Down the Disposal Will Eliminate Odors
Lemons are often touted as the go-to solution for a smelly garbage disposal. While it’s true that lemons have natural acidic properties that can neutralize odors, they can also cause long-term damage. The citric acid in lemons can rust your disposal’s blades and weaken pipes over time. Instead, a safer and more effective method is to use baking soda.
Sprinkle it down the disposal followed by a cup of vinegar. The mixture will naturally neutralize odors without risking the integrity of your plumbing. People often rely on quick fixes, and the idea of using something natural like lemon seems harmless.
Unfortunately, the acids in lemons can corrode metal components in the disposal, which might lead to costly repairs.
Turning Off Your AC or Heat When You Leave Saves Money
Many people think turning off the AC or heat while they’re not at home will save energy and reduce bills. However, this myth can actually increase your energy costs. When you return home and turn your system back on, it works harder to bring your home to the desired temperature, often using more energy than if it had been kept at a steady, moderate level.
Consider investing in a smart thermostat. These devices adjust the temperature according to your schedule, ensuring your system isn’t overworking. It allows for a balance between energy efficiency and comfort, keeping your home at the right temperature while you’re gone without wasting resources.
Cutting Your Lawn Shorter Means Less Frequent Mowing
A well-manicured lawn is the pride of many homeowners, but the belief that mowing your grass shorter will save time is flawed. Short grass exposes the soil to the sun more directly, making it vulnerable to drought. It also encourages the growth of weeds and pests.
Rather than cutting your grass to the shortest possible length, keep it at a healthy height of about 2.5 to 3 inches. This will allow the grass to retain moisture, discourage weeds, and reduce the need for frequent mowing. Also, remember that grass grows in cycles, and maintaining a consistent length helps ensure long-term lawn health.
Stone Countertops Are Indestructible
Granite, quartz, and marble are often considered “indestructible” materials for kitchen countertops. While these surfaces are durable, they’re not immune to damage. They can scratch, crack, or discolor if not treated with care.
Always use a cutting board and avoid placing hot pans directly on the countertop to protect the surface from heat damage. Regularly seal stone countertops, as this helps prevent staining from acids and spills.
Pressing the Test Button on Your Smoke Detector Is Enough
Pressing the test button on a smoke detector simply checks whether the alarm will sound. It doesn’t test the detector’s ability to detect smoke. To ensure your smoke detector is working correctly, light a match and blow it out near the detector to test the sensor’s functionality.
Test your smoke detectors monthly, and change the batteries at least once a year. Also, consider replacing your smoke detectors every 10 years to ensure they are still functioning optimally.
Conclusion
Debunking common home myths is crucial for the modern homeowner who seeks to maintain their property wisely. By replacing outdated or incorrect advice with proven, practical solutions, you can prevent costly mistakes and keep your home in top condition for years to come.
From managing your home’s heating and cooling system to maintaining your countertops and insulation, adopting smarter methods can result in better energy efficiency, improved safety, and overall peace of mind. A home is an investment, and maintaining it with accuracy and care will only increase its value and livability.
Don’t fall for myths that can damage your property take a thoughtful approach to your home maintenance and always seek out reliable sources.
